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Outlook: Newman has won two tournaments (Sauk Valley Shootout and the Newman tournament) this season after advancing to the Class 1A supersectional in 2012. They have impressive wins over Rock Falls and Oregon this season, and have shown an ability to create confusion by altering its defense from zone to man. Polo lost a lot of scoring to graduation, but has been more balanced in 2012. The Marcos are young and will need to be consistent for four quarters to beat Newman.

Outlook: Rock Falls fans will remember St. Mel from the State Farm Classic. They met in the second round with St. Mel winning 69-46. Guard Tevin King is ranked as one of the top juniors in the state by chicagohoops.com. Guard Khalil Small was an IBCA 1A/2A All-State selection last year. Aurora Christian has shown that it can score, including scoring 94 points in a win over Mendota at the Plano tournament and 87 points in a season-opening win over IMSA. The Eagles went 4-1 at the Plano tournament, losing to Belvidere 68-53 in the semifinals.

Outlook: Sycamore returned five of its top eight players from the 2012 team that finished 9-20. They have already equaled that win mark this season. The Spartans are coming off an appearance in the championship game of the Marengo tournament, and have some very good team speed. The Rockets placed fifth at the State Farm Classic last week as they continue to improve after a 12-15 season in 2012. Steven Armoska is one of the leading candidates for SVM player of year, as he has been a huge force in the middle for the Rockets.